ISTANBUL

AR_Al lstana, The Sublime Porte. Behind it lies all of the terrestrial power of the ancient Ottoman Empire, and above it, the celestial vault and its myriad stars, multiplied by their reflection in the sea.

The star, with five or seven branches, worked outward and encrusted with precious stones, is the city’s true talisman. A reference for the seafarers, it symbolizes success, the will to follow, and self-confidence.